New Hampshire ice fisherman Mike MacDonald told Reuters he’s not surprised — You can get a bucket of worms for $6 and that'll last you all day. Skiing, by contrast, costs $80 just for the lift ticket.

And there are stats to back it up: During the last recession, from 2001 to 2002, sales of fishing rods and reels jumped 12 percent, Reuters reported.

Fishing-license sales are up, attendance at derbies is on the rise and bait and tackle shops are reporting double-digit percentage increases in sales.

Not only is it cheap but as a colleague points out: It’s the only sport you can eat.

That should help with the grocery bill.

Yes, but what if you factor in the cost of beer?!

Pony Treats:

Fishin' for Facts. Before you go, check out Take Me Fishing's Fishopedia to get your lure lingo straight. And, if you're taking the kids, check out their Little Lunkers learning section for fun games like Hatchery Matchery and Fish Hangman.